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Emissions: car manufacturers risk heavy fines, according to the head of Renault

by AI | 10.Sep 2024 | Europe in brief AI

As sales of electric cars weaken in Europe, manufacturers could face heavy fines for non-compliance with EU emission standards.

The CEO of the Renault group, the Italian Luca De Meo, shows the trophy won by the Renault Scenic E-Tech electric vehicle, elected European Car of the Year 2024, on February 26, before the Geneva International Motor Show. (Photo: Fabrice COFFRINI / AFP)

Paris – European automakers risk 15 billion euros in fines if they do not comply with EU emission rules as electric car sales slow on the old continent, warned Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo, asking for “a little flexibility”.

“We are preparing for 2025 now because we are taking orders for the cars we are going to deliver. And there, according to our calculations, if electric remains at today’s level, the European industry may have to pay 15 billion euros in fines or give up the production of more than 2.5 million” units, warned Mr. de Meo, who is also president of the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), on public radio France Inter on Saturday.

An electric vehicle compensates for four thermal cars.

“We need a little flexibility,” he pleaded.

In August, electric represented only 12.5% of the European car market, with a 10.8% drop in sales over one year. (7 September 2024)